Safaris by design
TANZANIA SAFARI
KUMAR FAMILY
DAYS BEFORE THE MAGIC STARTS!
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2024 / USD $ 4,992 / pps*
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*pps=per person sharing
Minimum of 3 pax traveling
WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!
Welcome to Tanzania! Serengeti Endless, beautiful & wild: plains teeming with the Big-5, zebras, giraffes, countless rare species and so much more…
UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. As the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, it offers a unique safari experience with abundant wildlife, including the Big Five, in a lush, enclosed habitat. The crater’s diverse ecosystems, from forests to lakes, provide stunning scenery and unparalleled wildlife viewing
Next up… WitnessAfrica’s Great Migration!
The Great Migration in East Africa is one of the most awe-inspiring natural spectacles on Earth, where millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other animals journey across the Serengeti and Maasai Mara in search of fresh grazing lands. As predators follow the herds, the migration maintains the balance of ecosystems.This incredible event is not just a display of nature’s raw power and beauty, but also a vital process that sustains the region’s rich biodiversity.
Serengeti National park, Serengeti meaning an ‘extended place’, is undoubtedly the best-known wildlife sanctuary in the world! The Serengeti in Tanzania is world-renowned for its vast savannas and incredible wildlife, including the annual Great Migration of over a million wildebeest and zebras. Visitors can experience unforgettable safari adventures with opportunities to see lions, elephants, and cheetahs in their natural habitat.
OVERVIEW
Itinerary at a glance
◽️ DAY 0 | Travel
Departure
◽️ DAY 1 | Kenya
Nairobi arrival
◽️ DAY 2-3 | Tanzania
Ngorongoro Crater area
◽️ DAY 4-6 | Tanzania
Southern Serengeti South
◽️ DAY 7-8 | Tanzania
Serengeti Central
◽️ DAY 9 | Return
Departure
THE GREAT MIGRATION!
THE ANNUAL GREAT MIGRATION
Migration details
WHEN TO GO?
The allure of the Serengeti and Masai Mara extends throughout the year, offering a captivating wildlife experience regardless of the season. Contrary to popular belief, the Great Migration isn't a one-time event; it's a perpetual cycle that unfolds year-round. The vast Serengeti ecosystem is a dynamic landscape, and while the migration's location may vary, the spectacle of animals on the move is a constant. The wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores engage in a continuous circular migration, following the availability of fresh grass and water. This means that visitors can witness the breathtaking phenomenon of migration at different stages, from river crossings to calving seasons, providing a unique and immersive experience at any time. Whether it's the lush greenery of the rainy season or the dramatic river crossings during the dry season, the Serengeti and Masai Mara offer a year-round invitation to explore the unparalleled wonders of East Africa's wildlife.
PEAK "MIGRATION SEASON"
In late July and early August, the Masai Mara region transforms into a theater of nature's grandeur as the annual Great Migration reaches its climax. This extraordinary spectacle unfolds along the Mara River, where hundreds of thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores undertake the perilous journey from the southern Serengeti in Tanzania to the lush plains of the Masai Mara in Kenya. The Mara River crossings become the focal point of this awe-inspiring event, as the migrating herds face the daunting challenge of navigating through crocodile-infested waters. The air is charged with anticipation as the animals gather on the riverbanks, hesitating before plunging into the currents. The heart-stopping moments of river crossings are both a testament to the instinct for survival and a dramatic display of the circle of life. It's a riveting chapter in the natural history of East Africa that draws wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers alike, seeking to witness the raw beauty and drama of the animal kingdom in its most primal state.
A year-round invitation to explore the unparalleled wonders of East Africa's wildlife!
MAP
MAP
Visualize your journey!
DAY 0 | Travel
DEPARTURE
Travel
DEPARTURE
Your adventure starts now!
Embark on an African safari and anticipate breathtaking landscapes, encountering diverse and majestic wildlife in their natural habitats, and immersing yourself in the rich cultural experiences of the continent.
* See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
DAY 2-3| Ngorongoro Crater
NGORONGORO CRATER
Ngorongoro Crater experience
📍 Tloma Lodge
NGORONGORO CRATER
Area Overview
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area spans 8,300 square kilometres, stretching from the Rift Valley to the Serengeti. About 2.5 million years ago the young Ngorongoro Volcano became filled with molten rock that then solidified into a crust or roof. As the lava chamber emptied, the solid dome collapsed and from this was formed the largest caldera in the world. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) offers one of the richest wildlife viewing experiences on the African continent.
Approximately 25,000 large animals live in the natural enclosure formed by the 200sq miles crater, while the greater conservancy surroundings are home to wildebeest and zebra migratory movement in the wet season. It is undoubtedly the best place in Africa to see the Big Five, and photo opportunities are superb. The mineral-rich floor of the crater is covered in nutritious grasses, attracting great herds of wildebeest, zebra, buffalo and Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelle that can even be seen from the crater rim, swarming across the landscape in great columns.The rainforests of the crater walls are home to elephant, buffalo, leopard and cheetah, making for spectacular game viewing.
It was recently voted one of the new Seven Natural Wonders of Africa. The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the last remaining areas in Tanzania where you can see the endangered Black Rhino. A small population is thriving in this idyllic environment, and it remains one of the few wild places where they continue to breed.
In the conservation area lives 56,000 Masai in harmony with the East African Wildlife. Seeing the Masai let their herds share the grazing areas with thousands of Wildebeests and Zebras is unique phenomenon.
Activity: Ngorongoro Crater decent day
Ngorongoro Crater! Another great day in your safari adventure - Experience one of the world's most astonishing and renowned natural wonders, the Ngorongoro Crater! This volcanic crater forms stunning backdrops to some of the most fertile and richest grazing grounds in Africa. Based on fossil evidence, various hominid species have occupied the area for 3 million years.
Crater decent day schedule:
Descend into Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day game drive, exploring the panoramic, short-grass prairies along the floor of this ancient volcanic caldera. Home to rare black rhinos as well as lions, hyenas and gazelles, this incredible “Lost World” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
7:00 am: Morning breakfast at the lodge.
7:30 am: Drive to Ngorongoro conservation area and descend in the crater for a game drive for the rest of the day. Lunch will take place at the picnic site inside the park.
4:00 pm: Depart Ngorongoro highlands and be transferred to lodge
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Activity: Lake Manyara
Lake Manyara in Tanzania offers a wilderness experience in diverse habitats, from its Rift Valley soda lake to dense woodlands and steep mountainsides. Here, the Great Rift Valley is at its most impressive, with the escarpment dropping some 600 yards down to the lakeshore.
Apart from a spectacular setting, the park is famous for its unusual tree-climbing lions and the vast elephant herds it was established to protect. The shores of the lake, encrusted with pink flamingo, attract more than 400 species of birds, many of them waterfowl or migrants. Large herds of buffalo, cheetah, Masai giraffe and impala roam the lake shores and the forested valley slopes. Troops of several hundred olive baboon appear alongside Sykes monkey and short-eared galago. Cape clawless otter, Egyptian mongoose, hippo and klipspringer are other park residents.to the breathtaking panorama of Lake Manyara and the surrounding landscape, visible from your private balcony or veranda.
ACTIVITIES:
Game drives & walking safaris. There are different attractions and activities in Lake Manyara; game drive since , boat cruise, hot air ballooning, bird watching/birding, nature walks in the park, cultural visit in the local homes and many more activities.
Look out for the tree-climbing lions!
TLOMA LODGE
Camp Overview
Full board, excl.drinks
Nestled on the outskirts of Karatu village within the stunning Ngorongoro Highlands, Tloma Lodge offers a secluded retreat featuring 24 charming cottages and 12 serene garden-view rooms. Perched on an elevated shoulder of the valley, the lodge offers guests sweeping, breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect escape into nature. Each room is equipped with modern en suite facilities, ensuring comfort amidst this tranquil setting.
Committed to sustainability, Tloma Lodge is powered by eco-friendly solar panels, with a generator on standby for added peace of mind. Guests can truly immerse themselves in the natural beauty and culture of the area, with a wide range of activities designed to enrich their stay. Enjoy guided nature walks through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, explore the vibrant Karatu village on a cultural tour, or unwind in the solar-heated pool. For ultimate relaxation, indulge in a rejuvenating full or half-body massage delivered by a highly skilled and experienced masseuse.
With the Lake Manyara airstrip just 30 minutes away, Tloma Lodge is easily accessible, yet far enough from the hustle and bustle to offer a peaceful and immersive experience in one of Tanzania's most beautiful regions. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Tloma Lodge promises an unforgettable stay, blending luxury, sustainability, and cultural authenticity.
FULL BOARD
TENTED
GAME VIEW
DAY 4-6 | Southern Serengeti
SERENGETI NP
Witness the Great Migration!
📍Nasikia Mobile Camp
SERENGETI NP
Area Overview
Serengeti National Park is located in Northern Tanzania and covers an area of about 14.670 km². The park was founded in 1920 and became a National Park in 1951. The Park is especially famous for it's immense Wildebeest and Zebra herds, but it is not without reason that it is also known as the best place for observation wildlife in general.
The Serengeti is one of the 10 natural travel wonders of the world.
The Serengeti migration is as remarkable as it is impressive. This migration takes place twice a year within Kenya and Tanzania and is considered one of the greatest migrations of wildlife on the planet. Its ecosystem is spread across 60,000 square kms and is home to the largest diverse concentration of wildlife and famous for infamous for the migration of nearly two million Wildebeests, Zebras, and Antelopes. The Migration is as old as human history. Fossils that were found in the Olduvai canyon, prove that Wildebeests have already been using the planes of the Serengeti for their migration over a million years ago. Already at to those times, they were following the rains through the Serengeti.
- 5.00 to 6.00 am – Wake up with the animals. ...
- 6.00 to 9.00 am – Morning game activities. ...
- 9.00 to 10.00 am – Breakfast. ...
- 10.00 to 12.30 pm – Free time. ...
- 12.30 to 1.30 pm – Lunch. ...
- 1.30 to 3.30 pm – Siesta time. ...
- 3.30 to 4.00 pm – Afternoon tea. ...
- 4.00 to 7.30 pm – Game viewing.
THE GREAT MIGRATION
The great Serengeti wildebeest migration is the movement of vast numbers of the Serengeti's wildebeest, accompanied by large numbers of zebra, and smaller numbers of Grant's gazelle, Thomson's gazelle, eland and impala. These move in an annual pattern which is fairly predictable. They migrate throughout the year, constantly seeking fresh grazing land, it's now thought, better quality water.The precise timing of the Serengeti wildebeest migration is entirely dependent upon the rainfall patterns each year – here we explain how the broad pattern works.
The action takes place across 150,000 square miles of woodlands, hills and open plains, a wilderness that includes not only the Serengeti Nattional Park and Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve but also the dispersal areas beyond.
The key players in this 1,200-mile odyssey are the wildebeest – 1.5 million of them – accompanied by 200,000 zebras, 350,000 Thompson's' impala and Grant's gazelles. For them, every year is an endless journey, chasing the rains in a race for life.
- The yearly cycle begins in the south of the park, where half a million calves are born between January and March.
- When the rains end in May the land dries fast and the grazing animals must move on, heading for their dry season refuge in the Masai Mara. Some take Route One – north across the Seronera Valley and others swing through the Western Corridor, but for all of them the journey is beset with danger
- With the beginning of the short rains in late October the migration makes its way back into the Serengeti, so this a good time to be anywhere in the north of the park.
- By December, having emerged from the northern woodlands, the herds return past Seronera to mass on their calving grounds again and the circle is complete. But as soon as the rains return the wildebeest head back to the Serengeti, drawn towards their calving grounds in the park’s deep south.
The journey is riddled with danger: for a start there are the famous Serengeti lions – about 3,000 at the last count – to which can be added leopards and cheetahs, hungry hyena clans and monster crocodiles. The river crossing is most likely one on the most dramatic events in the Serengeti!
THE CENTRAL SERENGETI
This area is the vibrant, beating heart of the Serengeti. The Central Serengeti sees high volumes of visitors due to the large amounts of resident wildlife. This gives travelers a high chance of seeing wildlife in the least amount of time. The central Serengeti is the quintessential image of a Serengeti safari; stretches of savanna grassland dotted with acacia and baobab trees. The Seronera River Valley is beautiful and the year-round water supply keeps the area rich in predator and prey. The Central Serengeti is a year-round destination thanks to the resident wildlife and reaches its peak in the dry season from June to November.
WESTERN CORRIDOR and GRUMETI
The Western Corridor is a remote section of the Serengeti which stretches to Lake Victoria. This area is well known for the Grumeti River which is the scene of treacherous river crossings that form part of the Great Migration. Thousands of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle make their way across the crocodile infested waters en-route to the lush plains of the Masai Mara in Kenya. The best time to witness these crossings is from late May to mid-July.
NORTHERN SERENGETI
The Northern Serengeti is a quiet area of the Serengeti thanks to its remote and secluded location. Expect far fewer crowds here as it requires long travel times to get to the northern area. The trip is worth it as the Northern Serengeti’s landscapes are varied and beautiful and it is home to exciting wildlife. It is also where travelers can watch the dramatic Mara River crossings. Herds that are thousands strong make the dangerous crossing, attempting to avoid the crocodiles as they do so. The best time to visit with a high chance of seeing the river crossings is from July to September.
SOUTHERN SERENGETI
Serengeti translates loosely to “endless plains” in the local Masai language. It could be argued that the seemingly never ending, short grass plains of the Southern Serengeti were the inspiration for the name. This seasonal safari destination is the most accessible area of the Serengeti and stretches from the Central Serengeti and the Seronera to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The Lake Ndutu region is dotted with alkaline lakes home to flocks of pink flamingos. This area is great for game viewing during the Great Migration from December to March. Most excitingly, the lush plains are the perfect destination and backdrop for the calving season during February when about half a million calves are born over a 2-3-week period and join the ranks of the huge herds.
EASTERN SERENGETI
The Eastern Serengeti is definitely ‘off the beaten path’ and is one of the most starkly beautiful sections of the Serengeti. Made up of grass plains, rivers and rocky outcrops, this area does not see many tourists but is an exciting safari destination. It is home to all three species of big cat (leopard, lion and cheetah) with a noticeably high concentration of cheetah. The wildlife viewing in the eastern Serengeti is at its best during the dry season and reaches its pinnacle in November when the Great Migration passes through.
Safari Days!
Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.
Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.
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NASIKIA MIGRATION CAMP
Camp Overview
Full board excl. premium drinks
FULL BOARD
TENTED CAMP
CAMEL SAFARI
DAY 7-8 | Central Serengeti
SERENGETI (Central)
Safari Days
📍 Nyumbani Camp
SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
Area Overview
Experience the Serengeti wildebeest migration like never before. Get ready for an exhilarating journey through the vast plains, accompanied by herds of zebra and other majestic wildlife.
Witness this annual spectacle of nature as the wildebeest migrate in search of fresh grazing and better-quality water. With the precise timing of their movement dependent on rainfall patterns, every moment is filled with anticipation. Join us on an extraordinary adventure and discover the true essence of Africa.
Safari days!
Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.
Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.
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NYUMBANI CAMP
Camp Overview
Full board excl. premium drinks
Experience the world famous Serengeti National Park! The Serengeti ecosystem is a world-renowned natural landscape.With resilient populations of predators and iconic wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, and rhinos, the Serengeti National Park is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home of The Great Migration of Wildebeest, Zebra and Thompsons Gazelle.
Nyumbani Camp is nestled in the heart of the untamed Serengeti National Park, amidst its thunderous paths. Nyumbani the Swahili word for "home," reveals a deeper meaning. It is our pleasure to welcome you to your home away from home. Enjoy the enchantment of safari life and our welcoming oasis where earth meets sky in infinite space.
This modern camp is permanently located in the Central Serengeti.
This exclusive personal setting, with only 8 luxury tented suites, provides a memorable wilderness adventure.
Each spacious safari tent has its own indoor sitting area where you can relax during the day and gaze across the starry sky at night.
Indulge in personalized luxury while surrounded by nature's awe-inspiring beauty. Drift off to sleep to the pleasantly soothing sounds of the African night. Dine in a personalized environment surrounded by nature's limitless grandeur.
ACTIVITIES
In between exhilarating daily activities and safari game drives, indulge in the simple pleasure of observing the vast stillness of the Serengeti plains.In the evening, a campfire is lit, and stories of the day are told while a hearty meal is served under the constellations of brilliant stars.
Fly to Serengeti National Park, host to the Great Migration for a portion of each year, when a staggering number of herbivores trek across the Serengeti plains in search of water and fresh grass — hungry predators awaiting them or following in their wake. Over the next two days, your adventure may reveal giraffes, wildebeests, elephants and much more on morning and afternoon game drives through the boundless Serengeti, home of one of the largest wildlife populations in the world.
FULL BOARD
TENTED CAMP
Full board excl. premium drinks
GAME VIEW
DAY 9 | Departure
RETURN
DEPARTURE
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end! Goodbye to the safari life, feeling relaxed, mesmerizing scenery, great food, family time, and romantic memories.
Morning road transfer back to the airport for your outbound flight... dreaming of the trip of a lifetime!
TRAVEL INFO
◽️ Preparing for your trip
PREPARING FOR YOUR
SAFARI
Pre-Travel Information
Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date of your arrangements and have a minimum of three blank visa pages excluding endorsement pages. Travellng with minors - in addition to having a valid passport and valid visa (if applicable), children under the age of 18, traveling through Botswana’s borders, must be in possession of a certified copy of their unabridged birth certificate (one that shows the particulars of a minor and those of both parents). A child under the age of 18 traveling to Botswana and/or South Africa with just one parent must carry an affidavit signed by the other parent consenting to such travel. Failure to produce the necessary documentation may result in travelers being turned away at port of entry. Insider Tips Zimbabwe and Mozambique visas each use up a full passport page. If you are visiting both countries we recommend a minimum of four blank pages. Post Covid passport renewals are taking much longer than in the past so don’t leave applying for a new passport until the last moment as there iust a chance you won’t receive it in time to travel. Keeping your passport safe is key as there is nothing worse than having to spend precious holiday time replacing it. Make at least two copies of the ID page of your passport, visa (if obtained in advance of travel), Covid-19 vaccine passport, travel itinerary, travel insurance, credit cards and any other travel documentation. One copy can be an image scan and the other a hard copy which you can give to a family member, business associate or close friend for safekeeping When it comes to health risks and medical precautions, Machaba Blue is only able to offer limited advice as outlined below. Those with underlying chronic conditions should ideally seek medical advice prior to planning their journey. Prior to traveling to Africa, we highly recommend you visit a medical professional such as your GP or local travel clinic for advice on what health precautions need to be taken. This visit should take place at least 4-8 weeks prior to departure as it will determine the need for any vaccinations and/or antimalarial medication as well as identifying any other medical precautions. Currently no mandatory vaccinations are required when entering Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa. Please check if this is still the case when visiting your GP or travel clinic. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by visitors coming from a country where yellow fever occurs, or if they have been in transit for more than 12 hours at an airport in a country here yellow fever occurs. Malaria is present throughout southern Africa and in certain areas of South Africa. Insider Tips INCLUDED ____________ * As indicated on your detailed safari itinerary EXCLUDED ____________ * Unless otherwise indicated on your itineraryPASSPORTS
HEALTH
VISAS
GRATUITIES
PACKING LIST
BAGGAGE
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SAFETY GUIDELINES
INCLUDED & EXCLUDED